Members of Parliament have expressed concern over the ongoing sale of pesticides and herbicides that have been banned in other countries due to their harmful effects.

Led by Vice Chairperson Robert Gichimu (Gichugu MP), the Committee on Delegated Legislation summoned officials from the Ministry of Agriculture to justify the approval of these toxic products.

“Some herbicides currently available in agrovets across Kenya have been classified as toxic in other regions. Are we truly safe?” Gichimu questioned.

The legislators also cited Roundup, a herbicide that has faced criticism and claims of being linked to cancer.

The MP questioned why the product remains listed in the board’s registry despite the allegations against it.

In response, Paul Ngaruiya, the acting General Manager of Research and Strategy at the Pest Control Products Board, stated that the regulator bases its decisions on scientific evidence.

“There is no new scientific evidence presented to the Board indicating that the product is carcinogenic. The public has alternative options available; it is their choice,” Ngaruiya stated, adding that the product continues to be used internationally.

He also emphasized that all agricultural products undergo a rigorous approval process and are considered safe when used properly.

The lawmakers called on the Board to revise amendments in existing laws to improve the safety of all products.

This meeting follows several scandals that have shaken the Ministry of Agriculture, including the distribution of fake fertilizer and the release of 20,000 bags of contaminated sugar to the public.

These incidents have raised concerns about how regulatory bodies are allowing unsafe products into the market without adhering to proper procedures.

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